News: Blog — 5 tips for structuring your UCAS personal statement

If you’re struggling to finalise your statement, or to bring it together into a meaningful structure, don’t panic! We’ve put together some top tips to help you demonstrate your suitability.

Describe your interest in your chosen course and show them that you have a real interest in the subject you’re applying for. If you’re applying to slightly different subjects at different universities and/​or colleges, you can be a bit less specific, but make sure you do explain your reasons for the area of study. 

Use this section to highlight your relevant knowledge, but also the transferable skills you’ve learned. For example, what have you enjoyed most and what study skills have you learned? What about communication or practical skills? Be as specific as possible with your examples. 

Thinking about higher education and your chosen course, try to include any examples from paid or unpaid work experience that help make you a suitable candidate. This could be being organised, team-working, or being self-motivated, for example. Don’t worry if you haven’t got much experience in this area – but it’s a valuable added extra if you do. 

Here, it’s worth thinking about what makes you a well-rounded person – do you have hobbies that specifically demonstrate any relevant skills? Perhaps you’ve been part of a student council at school or college? Are you member of a club or society, and if so what are your specific responsibilities?

If you have children, you could describe the transferable skills you use in everyday life, such as planning and time management.

This doesn’t need to repeat all the points already mentioned, but it’s a good place to emphasise your main reasons for applying and your future ambitions.